(Photo Credit: SeaWorld)

SeaWorld Releases Sea Lions

Sea World San Diego released seven sea lions after eight weeks of rehabilitation. The rescued sea lions include six pups who came to Sea World malnourished and a seventh who was discovered with a shark bite to the shoulder. The seventh sea lion also had several broken bones in its left fin.

Despite criticism from animal-rights activists over its treatment of animals in captivity, Sea World says it has rescued and rehabilitated over 35,000 animals. In June, Sea World employees rescued another Sea Lion pup who was tangled in a plastic ribbon on Boomer’s Beach in California. Sea World even offers a hotline for people to call if they spot animals in trouble.

“SeaWorld’s legacy of animal rescue spans more than 50 years,” Sea World says on its Web site. “In that time, SeaWorld’s Rescue Teams have come to the aid of more than 35,000 sick, injured and orphaned animals in need, giving them a second chance at life. None of this would be possible without the continued support of our partner agencies, park guests, Pass Members, and dedicated team members, as well as the people across the globe taking action to protect these amazing animals and their habitats.”

The seven rescued sea lions underwent intensive physical therapy at Sea World before being released into the wild off the coast of California.